Detection of extended spectrum beta-Lactamase producing Enterobacteriaceae from food animals In Turkey

Abstract

Extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) which confer resistance to penicillins, cephalosporins, and monobactams are studied in detail in human medicine but data on ESBLs of animal origin are still limited. The aim of the present study is to determine the presence of ESBL producing Enterobacteriaceae from healthy food animals in Turkey. Fecal samples or rectal swabs were obtained from cattle, calves, sheep from slaughterhouses and farms. Antibiotic supplemented medium was used for the selective isolation of potential ESBL producing Enterobacteriaceae. Of 349 samples, five (2.1 %) from cattle had Enterobacteriaceae with the ESBL phenotype. PCR and sequencing were used to determine the underlying genetic determinants responsible for the ESBL phenotypes. All of the five isolates harboured, TEM-I and SHV (four isolates SHV-5 and one isolate SHV-12) type beta-lactamases and none of the isolates harboured CTX-M type ESBLs. In conclusion, commensal Enterobactericeae strains of food animals may be a reservoir of ESBL and studies on bacteria of animal origin must be carried out which will improve our understanding on the evolution of beta-lactamases and the factors lead to this resistance.